Over 100 members of the local farming community took time on a sunny, September day to spend 3 hours in an exhibit hall sharing concerns about the exploding deer population. The Washington County Fairgrounds was the site of the meeting organized by state representative Anita Kulik, whose district covers Bridgeville and Robinson Township. About 14 officials from across the state listened as farmers made their pleas and came up with possible solutions to address the damage the deer are causing to their crops and property. The Executive Director of Pennsylvania State Game Commission, Steve Smith, along with various legislators, including Representatives Tim O’Neil, Washington County commissioners Larry Maggi, Nick Sherman and Greene County Representative Bud Cook all listened as members of the farming community communicated the hardships they are facing due to deer damage. Pennsylvania is not alone in this problem; mild winters, urban sprawl and a drop in the number of hunters has contributed to the abundance of deer across the country. Discussed solutions include extended deer season, increased tag allowances per person, incentives for hunting and even fencing for properties. Farmers say it’s about education. As cute as the deer may be; feeding them and encouraging them to stay on your property only compounds the problem.